To think that you should seek my advice in this assembly (of wise men) and at this holy place! Yet if I remain silent, I shall appear mad. Yet with these beggarly lips I mouth mighty words – I pray you, father, forgive me, for you know that Providence looks not kingly on me!

It is fully recognized in the Tantras, the Vedas and the Puranas, and known to all the world, that loyal service is difficult to perform. Duty to a master is incompatible with self-interest; hatred is blind and love bereft of wisdom. (Whether I speak from self-interest or from affection for my master, I am liable to err.)

Remembering that my will is subject to my master and in due deference to Rama’s wishes, his duty and his sacred vow, pray do what all approve and what is good for all, and forget not the love all feel for him.’

On hearing Bharata’s speech and marking his disposition Janaka and all his retinue burst out into praises. Simple, yet incomprehensible; soft and sweet, yet hard; brief, yet packed with fathomless meaning;

- his pregnant speech was as elusive as the reflection of a face in a glass held in the hand. Then Janaka and Bharata and the sage (Vasishtha), together with the whole assembly, called on Rama, who gladdens the gods even as the moon gladdens the lilies.

On hearing the news all the people were as tormented by anxiety as fish at the touch of the first showers (of the wet monsoon). The gods, observing first the condition of the family guru (the sage Vasishtha), then witnessing Janaka’s exceeding affection -

- and Bharata’s absorption in devotion to Rama, were selfishly dismayed and sunk into a state of utter despair. When they saw everyone immersed in love for Rama, they were all immeasurably alarmed.